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Respiratory Disorders (Expert Forum)
6mm Nodule
Answered by
CO
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6mm Nodule
by mrsdjwife, Oct 29, 2008 03:13PM
Hi,
I was just told that a 6mm nodule was found on my CT Scan, what does this mean? and should this be something to be afraid of.
I was just told that a 6mm nodule was found on my CT Scan, what does this mean? and should this be something to be afraid of.
Doctor's Answer
by National Jewish Health, Oct 31, 2008 04:55PM
, Oct 31, 2008 04:55PM
A 6mm nodule is quite a small nodule and the smaller a nodule, the more likely it is to be benign. The overwhelming number of nodules this size are a residual of past infection and are of no consequence. Should you be concerned? The answer is, not at all concerned if you are under age 30 to 35 and a non-smoker. More concerned but not greatly concerned if you are a long time cigarette smoker and age 55 or older. Less concerned if you live in a geographical area where such post-fungal infection nodules are common such as the midwest and southwest.
Bottom line is that the assessment of a nodule must take into account many demographic factors, exposures, and physical characteristics of the nodule, in addition to size. Review of previous chest x-rays/CT scans for comparison is very important. Stability or lack of change of a nodule for 2 years or more is considered strong evidence of its being non-malignant.
You should discuss this with your doctor, for further clarification, but this nodule would generally be of little concern. If there is any doubt a CT scan limited to the area of the nodule in 6 months or so would be reasonable.
Bottom line is that the assessment of a nodule must take into account many demographic factors, exposures, and physical characteristics of the nodule, in addition to size. Review of previous chest x-rays/CT scans for comparison is very important. Stability or lack of change of a nodule for 2 years or more is considered strong evidence of its being non-malignant.
You should discuss this with your doctor, for further clarification, but this nodule would generally be of little concern. If there is any doubt a CT scan limited to the area of the nodule in 6 months or so would be reasonable.
Member Comments (1)
by kim6116, Jun 08, 2009 10:59PM
A related discussion, lung nodules was started.
